Syrian Foreign Minister Reopens Embassy in Libya After Nearly 14 Years

Syria’s diplomatic presence in Libya has returned after nearly 14 years, with Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani reopening the Syrian Embassy in Tripoli during a visit on Sunday.

Al-Shaibani arrived at Mitiga International Airport and met Taher al-Baour, who oversees the affairs of Libya’s Government of National Unity Foreign Ministry. He later held talks with Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh about restoring official ties and expanding cooperation.

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new relations that benefit both countries

The Syrian Embassy in Tripoli closed in 2012, months after the fall of Muammar Gaddafi’s regime. Libya’s then-Transitional National Council had recognized the Syrian revolution, and relations remained severed during the rule of Bashar al-Assad.

The discussions focused on raising diplomatic representation, reactivating the Joint Higher Committee and addressing economic, investment and trade cooperation. Officials also discussed security and counterterrorism, the two countries’ communities, consular services, prisoners and detainees, refugees and displaced people, and the possible reopening of Syria’s consulate in Benghazi.

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in a manner that serves the common interests of the two brotherly peoples

Libya’s Foreign Ministry said the talks aimed to strengthen coordination in a way that serves the shared interests of the two countries. Dbeibeh stressed the importance of “opening a new phase of relations” based on common interests and practical cooperation while resolving outstanding issues affecting citizens.

Al-Shaibani also met Libya’s oil and gas minister and the chairman and chief executive of the Libyan Investment Authority. Those meetings addressed energy and investment cooperation, broader partnerships and the exchange of expertise, as the new Syrian administration works to rebuild ties with Libya.

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opening a new phase of relations